@hollydolly Have you ever tried capsaicin cream for your back pain? There are times nothing else works for my fibromyalgia flare spasms.
If you're not familiar with it (or someone else on the thread might benefit from the info), it's made from the hot portion of chili peppers and, yes, it does burn going on but it's a "good burn" at least to me because the burn diverts the signals to the brain from the pain of the spasms.
You have to be very careful applying it and use a paper towel then wash hands thoroughly after using to avoid getting it in your eyes if you rub them after applying. To get to hard to reach back areas, I tape a paper towel onto a back scratcher to apply. I also try to find the most sore spots and apply strategically. This is not something you want to spread over a broad area!
Mechanism of Action
Capsaicin cream operates on a straightforward mechanism: it depletes substance P, a neuropeptide that transmits pain signals to the brain. Initially, when capsaicin is applied to the skin, it causes a temporary increase in pain sensation due to its action on the TRPV1 receptors. However, with continued use, these receptors become desensitized. As substance P levels decrease in nerve endings, the intensity of pain diminishes.
1. Initial Application
Upon application of capsaicin cream, users may experience a burning or tingling sensation. This is due to the activation of TRPV1 receptors and the immediate release of substance P. For some individuals, this initial discomfort can be alarming; however, it usually subsides quickly.
2. Desensitization
With regular application over time—typically several days to weeks—nerve endings become less responsive to stimuli. The continuous presence of capsaicin leads to a depletion of substance P from nerve terminals.
3. Pain Relief
As substance P levels decline, the transmission of pain signals to the brain decreases significantly. Users begin to notice reduced pain intensity and improved functionality in affected areas.
